The Lower North Shore offers a captivating selection of authentic, memorable experiences and activities. It is one of North America’s few remaining places to enjoy wild nature and vibrant culture. You can see remnants of its fascinating history all around you. From a back-country salmon-fishing adventure to a hooked mat craft demonstration, there is something for everyone. At every turn, you will meet warm and hospitable people and be surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Explore this vast, open country that has been attracting people for nearly nine thousand years

Providence Island is located just southeast of the community of Tête-à-la-Baleine, and is accessible by organized boat tours during the summer season. The island’s main attraction is its chapel. First established in 1895, it is the oldest chapel on the Lower North Shore. You can visit the chapel and the Providence Island Interpretation Centre housed within it. The Centre interprets the history of the chapel as well as of the Tête-à-la-Baleine archipelago.

Open during the summer season to coincide with the arrival of the Nordik Express, or upon request.

Situated on Île de la Passenear Tête-à-la-Baleine, this museum is a replica of local legend Joseph Hébert’s last house. In 1879, Hébert became the first mail carrier on the Lower North Shore, delivering news by dogsled to its remote villages. The site pays tribute to Hébert’s legacy and versatile character. It also interprets the distinctive “islander” way of life and traditions from residents of the islands of Tête-à-la-Baleine.

Open during the summer season to coincide with the arrival of the Nordik Express, or upon request.

Located in one of the first houses built on the island of Harrington Harbour, the Rowsell House Interpretation Centre interprets the cultural and natural heritage of this charming community and its surrounding archipelago. Models, panels and local artifacts interpret traditional activities, fishing, and local history. The Centre also houses original documents and memorabilia relating to Dr. Grenfell, the famous medical missionary who served the region beginning in the late 1800s. The Rowsell House is the best place to start your visit of Harrington Harbour. Staff can provide information on what to see in the village, including guided tours to historic sites. Various postcards, maps, publications and DVDs are on sale at the Centre.

Open seasonally from Monday to Friday, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 pm, and Saturday from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 pm, and upon request.

The Whiteley Museum was named in honour of William H. Whiteley, inventor of the cod trap in 1871. Through this invention, Whiteley revolutionized cod fishing throughout Eastern Canada. The museum interprets the cod trap, the Whiteley family, and the fascinating natural and cultural history of the region. It features a model of Whiteley’s extensive fishing installations on Bonne Espérance Island, near St. Paul’s River. The museum also houses a small craft and souvenir shop.

Open seasonally from Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

MIDDLE BAY INTERPRETATION CENTRE

Middle Bay Interpretation Center

The Middle Bay Interpretation Centre serves as the gateway to the villages of Middle Bay and nearby St. Paul’s River and Old Fort. The newly-renovated Centre is located in the old school. The permanent exhibition highlights the history and culture of the village and the region through a display of artifacts and images. Here, you will also find an exhibit of paintings, hand-made model boats, and hand-crafted items that showcase local traditional skills. You can purchase local crafts and obtain visitor information at the Centre. The Middle Bay Interpretation Centre regularly hosts traveling exhibits.

Located in the Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes church, this museum commemorates the life and work of Bishop Lionel Scheffer in a new exhibit. The village owes its hospital and church to Bishop Scheffer’s efforts. A collection of photos, videos and artifacts depicts the life of the missionary bishop, and through his eyes, the history of the region from 1946 to 1966.